FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why am I taking ESL?

Students are eligible for English as a second language services based on the results of a language screening test.

ESL classes support the social and academic language necessary to succeed in content classes. Parents or guardians have the right to refuse ESL services. If you wish to do so, please contact the ESL teacher or school counseling department.

How many ESL levels are there?

Levels range from 1-4.

Students designated as levels 1-4 are enrolled in ESL courses and content courses.

As a student achieves higher levels of proficiency, they take fewer ESL courses and more content courses (Science, English Language Arts, History, etc...)

Students who achieve a composite score of 4.4 on the ACCESS test are considered "graduated" or exited from the ESL program. They are monitored by the ESL faculty for two years to ensure success.

What is the ACCess for Ells test?

The ACCESS for ELLs test is a federally mandated statewide standardized assessment used to measure a student's proficiency in English. It is given every winter to all English learners levels 1-4, including students who refuse services. The test has 4 (four) parts, with separate tests for listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

ACCESS for ELLs scores are usually received in June and sent home with the student.

A student's placement in ESL classes (level 1, 2, 3, or 4) is determined primarily by the ACCESS scores as well as by the student's performance in class.

What is a language accommodation?

English learners are entitled to certain accommodations on the Standards of Learning (SOL) tests.

At the beginning of the year, the English learner committee creates an English Learner Assessment Plan for each student that outlines the accommodations for each SOL test the student will take in the spring. Accommodations may include the use of a bilingual dictionary, small group administration, and other standard and non-standard accommodations. Accommodations are for the purpose of SOL testing but must in place throughout the school year in class if they are to be used on the SOL test.

Can I use a bilingual dictionary in class?

Students may use a paper bilingual dictionary on an SOL test if it is part of the English Learner Assessment Plan and has been used during the year. (see previous question)

How do I get a bilingual dictionary to use?

Tucker ESL has a limited number of bilingual dictionaries to distribute. They will be distributed to students who are designated as eligible for the bilingual dictionary accommodation in their LEP plan.

Do not write in any part of the dictionary. This will make it unusable for standardized test purposes.

Dictionaries will be returned in the Spring. Damaged dictionaries will be subject to HCPS replacement fees.

The ESL teachers will provide more detailed information about bilingual dictionary distribution in the Fall.

How do I meet with a teacher?

The best way to contact any HCPS teacher is by email.

Tucker Staff List

HCPS Email Directory

Use the "Tucker Staff List" to find the name of a teacher. Use the "HCPS Email Directory" to find staff emails.

To arrange a meeting by email:

1. Email the teacher and ask the teacher to meet. Provide a few dates/times you are available.
2. The teacher can confirm a date/time, or suggest a new one.
3. Please confirm all meetings with a teacher.
4. Generally, the teacher will arrange for a professional interpreter to interpret during the meeting. If you wish to bring a family member or friend to interpret as well, you may.
5. Go to the main office to sign in. The front desk staff will direct you to the correct place.

Teachers are happy to arrange meetings over the phone as well. Interpretation services can also be provided with a phone meeting.

Can I visit the school?

You may come to the front desk to visit the school, however:

• School staff cannot interrupt classes
• Teachers may not be available to speak with you

It is strongly suggested that you use email to arrange a meeting with school staff (see previous question).

How do I request an interpreter?

We make an effort to arrange a professional interpreter for all teacher-family phone calls and in-person meetings. You are welcome to bring a family member or friend to interpret, but please be aware that there will almost always be an interpreter as well. If you prefer to communicate only in English, please let us know. We want you to feel comfortable as we discuss the most important thing- your student's success.

Teachers will generally request an interpreter, but you may also request one using the linked forms, available in English, Spanish, Nepali, and Arabic.

Can I go to summer school?

Summer school is free for ESL students. Students in levels 1-2 are strongly encouraged to apply. Transportation is provided at bus hubs (different from the regular bus stops).

ESL teachers will provide summer school applications in the Spring.

How much time do I need to study?

Plan to use 1- 2 hours to study and complete homework every night.

Consistent study time is extremely important for success in both language classes and content classes. If you need help with strategies for studying, please ask your teacher.

What is Academic Extension (AE)?

AE is a special time that students have during the school day to work on academic or extracurricular activities. This is when students can participate in a club or other organization. Students can also use the time to receive tutoring, remediation, or make up missed tests or quizzes. If a student does not have a planned AE activity, the time should be used to study and work on homework or projects. Teachers are available during AE for guidance.

I do not have the internet or wifi at home. How can I complete online assignments?

• Use AE time to complete assignments. The school provides a free internet connection.
• Local libraries are free and open to the public. Bring your computer to a library to use the wifi.
• Some local parks and recreational areas have free wifi.
• Some businesses, such as cafes, restaurants, or malls have free wifi.
• If an assignment or instructions are online, you can download the webpage as a PDF to view offline at home.